| Abstract [eng] |
VILNIUS UNIVERSITY BUSINESS SCHOOL INTERNATIONAL PROJECT MANAGEMENT STUDY PROGRAMME SUBHRA KAR STRATEGIC ADAPTATION OF PROJECT MANAGEMENT PRACTICES IN RECONSTRUCTION PROJECTS WITHIN POST-CONFLICT RECOVERY CONTEXTS Supervisor - Associate Prof. Janis Paksis (M.Sc.) Master’s thesis (project) was prepared in Vilnius, in 2025 Scope of Master’s thesis (project) - 66 pages Number of tables used in the FMTP - 6 pcs Number of figures used in the FMTP - 8 pcs Number of bibliography and references - 48 pcs The FMTP described in brief: The aim of this research is to understand limitations of traditional PM frameworks in post-conflict context and to propose an adaptable and culturally sensitive approach that can improve project effectiveness and sustainability. Problem, objective and tasks of the FMTP: Traditional project management frameworks often struggle in post-conflict contexts due to dynamic risks and limited resources. This study reviews relevant literature, identifies key challenges through expert insights, develops an adapted project management approach for fragile environments. Research methods used in the FMTP: Quantitative research method was used with semi-structured individual interviews. Research and results obtained: Seven key themes were generated, and recommendations were drafted. Conclusion of the FMTP: Research indicates that the rigidity of traditional project management practices often makes them ineffective within weeks in post-conflict environments. These practices require contextual adaptability to manage uncertain risks and reduce delays, a need that is validated through feedback from professionals with direct post-conflict experience. Information about the publication of FMTP results or adaptation for Publication: The results are well drafted and ready to be published. ABSTRACT Post-conflict reconstruction takes place in very difficult situations where government bodies, international agencies, NGOs, local communities, and private companies need to work together in a very difficult context. In most cases, almost all the key physical infrastructures are demolished or damaged along with trust, institutional structure, and social systems. This study looks at how project management (PM) practices can be strategically adapted for post-conflict reconstruction projects. It is based on my own professional experience as a Lead Architectural Designer for the United Nations Educational, Scientific & Cultural Organization (UNESCO) in Iraq. The research focuses on the challenges of using widely known PM frameworks from PMBOK (Project Management Body of Knowledge), PRINCE2 (Projects in Controlled Environments), and IPMA (International Project Management Association) in the countries affected by war (like Iraq and Afghanistan, to some extent Ukraine). The study will use a combination of literature review, case studies of completed or almost completed projects by reputed international organizations, and in-depth interviews with subject matter experts/ professionals who are (or were) directly working (or worked) in the previously mentioned countries in these contexts. The purpose of this research is to understand how current PM strategies work in a post-conflict context and how PM frameworks can be modified to suit post-conflict context. By combining insights from multiple literatures, case studies of completed projects, and professional expert interviews. The study aims to understand what changes are key to make these frameworks more effective in post-conflict context. The final goal is to suggest a few additional frameworks which are more flexible, adaptable and more practical in war-torn settings, and culturally aware. This framework should help improve coordination among key stakeholders, make projects more sustainable, and increase their overall positive impact on communities recovering from war. |
